Enhancing workers’ rights in Sarawak

KUCHING: The Sarawak Labour Ordinance is set to be tabled in Parliament at the end of this year.

Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong emphasised that this move would ensure that workers in Sarawak receive the same rights and protections as their counterparts in Peninsular Malaysia.

“This is excellent news for workers in Sarawak. Thanks to the efforts and support of the Premier, the Sarawak Labour Ordinance will be brought before Parliament later this year,” he said.

Sim spoke about this matter to reporters after a courtesy call on Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at Wisma Bapa Malaysia earlier today (Sept 19).

He also conveyed his appreciation to the Premier for his efforts in aligning the Sarawak Labour Ordinance with the Employment Act 1955, thereby bringing it in line with legislation in Peninsular Malaysia.

Sim highlighted that the Premier had been vocal about the necessity for skilled labour in Sarawak, particularly in high-demand and growth sectors such as energy, transition industries, aerospace, and aviation.

Furthermore, he mentioned the Premier’s vision for advancing Sarawak’s high-value and high-growth sectors.

“He has emphasised the importance of skills training to nurture local talent, not only from Sarawak but also across Malaysia, to meet the demands of these emerging industries.”

This courtesy call formed part of the ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration between the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) and the Sarawak Government in promoting skills education in Sarawak and throughout Malaysia.

After the meeting, Sim participated in a cheque presentation ceremony at the Sarawak Technical Excellence Centre (CENTEXS) in Juma’ani Pavilion.

Also in attendance were Political Secretary to the Human Resources Minister Dr Kelvin Yii and State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki.